Barbell Shrug
Barbell Shrug is a beginner isolation barbell exercise that mainly works your traps.
💪 Traps🏋️ Barbell📈 Beginner🔗 Isolation🎯 3 sets of 10-15 reps


How to do the barbell shrug
- Stand up straight with your feet at shoulder width as you hold a barbell with both hands in front of you using a pronated grip (palms facing the thighs). Tip: Your hands should be a little wider than shoulder width apart. You can use wrist wraps for this exercise for a better grip. This will be your starting position.
- Raise your shoulders up as far as you can go as you breathe out and hold the contraction for a second. Tip: Refrain from trying to lift the barbell by using your biceps.
- Slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Muscles worked
Primary: Traps
Sets and reps
Do 3 sets of 10-15 reps with 60-90 seconds of rest, using a weight you can control through the full range. Add reps first, then weight.
Track your barbell shrug with GymPlan AI
Log every set in seconds, see your progress on charts, and ask the AI coach to build a plan around your goals and equipment. 7 days free, no card needed.
Start your free trialBarbell Shrug alternatives
Exercises that train the same main muscle, including options with other equipment.
ShrugDumbbell · Beginner
Cable ShrugsCable · Beginner
Leverage ShrugMachine · Beginner
Scapular Pull-UpBodyweight · Beginner
Barbell Shrug Behind The BackBarbell · Beginner
Kettlebell Sumo High PullKettlebell · IntermediateFAQ
What muscles does the barbell shrug work?
It mainly works your traps.
How many sets and reps of barbell shrug should I do?
Do 3 sets of 10-15 reps with 60-90 seconds of rest, using a weight you can control through the full range. Add reps first, then weight.
Is the barbell shrug good for beginners?
Yes. It is a beginner-friendly movement: start light and focus on the form steps above.